jkh@jade.UUCP (06/10/86)
Article: 6:11 First, let me say that I agree with some of the earlier views expressed that stress proper shot placement over caliber. If a gun is not comfortable to hold and shoot, it's probably not for you. A good way to try a potential weapon is to try triggering double taps (two shots fired quickly into the same area) into a pistol target at 25 yds. If you can keep your shots within 4 inches of each other, you've got adequate control for self defense. (don't flame me about this not being up to IPSC standards, we're talking defense here!). A 9mm generally has less recoil than the .45, making it easier to regain your sight picture. This all, of course, depends on the person shooting and the size of their hands. I have no problem with the .45 and prefer it to the 9mm (though I can't always say exactly why). There's always the problem of portability as well. I have seen some very small 9mm's that were suprisingly accurate. The only runner up in the .45 class I've had was a .45 detonics. I couldn't hit ^%$@%$#@! with it. I usually carry a .45 Government in a suspension holster, which makes it more comfortable but doesn't take away all the hassle of carrying a small cannon around. Most nines give you 14+ round magazine capacity as well, if you're a bad shot you might even have enough firepower to hit something. :-) (Note: this is likely to be an unpopular view among innocent bystanders). In a nutshell, all I can tell you to say is: "Buy something you're going to be comfortable with, and get plenty of practice.." I don't recommend aluminum frame autos (ALA Colt Commander Lightweight and S&W 459) since they tend to exhibit peening and deformation after prolonged use. A friend has one of the earlier S&W's and it's just about shot itself out (S&W admitted that this was pretty bad and came out with a steel version). Stainless steel autos are nice, but make sure it's a high grade alloy. Colt has been pretty good about their alloys, but the cheaper grades often start flaking at high friction points. This has caused a lot of jams, lockups and irate owners. For this reason, more lubrication and cleaning (sometimes with Lithium Sulphide and other exotic lubricants) is required than with other guns. If you're going for shootable heirloom, buy a Colt. Jordan Hubbard ucbvax!jkh